Kyla Schreck has recently joined the team at Knox Winamac Community Health Center, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to community-based health care. With over six years of experience as a nurse practitioner, Schreck is passionate about providing personalized care and developing long-term relationships with her patients. “What drew me to Knox Winamac was the chance to truly get to know my patients and the community,” she says. “It’s not just about treating illness, but about understanding people’s lives and helping them navigate their health.”
Schreck’s career began in 2006, working at the front desk of a medical facility, but her desire to work more closely with patients led her to pursue a nursing degree. She worked as a nurse while continuing her education and became a licensed nurse practitioner in 2018. Now at Knox Winamac, she enjoys seeing patients from all walks of life, from children to the elderly, providing everything from preventive care to managing chronic conditions. “I love the full spectrum of care we provide here, from wellness exams to substance-use treatment,” she adds. “You never know what your day will hold, and that keeps it exciting.”
As a Federally Qualified Health Center, Knox Winamac Community Health Center is committed to providing comprehensive care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. The clinic operates on a sliding scale based on income, ensuring that financial barriers don’t prevent people from receiving the care they need. “We’re here for everyone,” Schreck says. “No matter the circumstances, we work to ensure our patients receive the best possible care.”
Schreck works alongside a team of dedicated providers, including Dr. John Bulger and two other nurse practitioners, Roger Farris and Lesley Metts. Together they offer a range of services including primary care, chronic disease management, wellness visits, mental health care, and substance-use treatment. The team is also supported by a licensed clinical social worker, which enhances their ability to address the mental and emotional needs of their patients. “We treat the whole person here,” Schreck says. “If I suspect something outside of my scope like autoimmune issues or cancer, I’ll stay with the patient through the process, making sure they have the support they need to get to a specialist.”
Knox Winamac Community Health Center was founded in 2009 with the mission of providing high-quality, affordable health care to the community. Under the leadership of Executive Director Kathy Robb and Chief Financial Officer Eileen Blanke, the clinic has expanded to provide a full range of care from routine checkups to specialized services. Robb, who has been with the center since 2013, and Blanke, who joined in 2015, describe the clinic as a lifeline for many in the community. “We’re here to make sure people get the care they need, whether they have insurance or not,” says Robb. The center offers everything from physical exams and lab services to mental health support and addiction recovery programs.
Blanke underscores the importance of the clinic’s sliding fee scale, which allows patients to receive care based on their income level. “We work with patients to ensure that cost isn’t a barrier,” she explains. Both Robb and Blanke take pride in the personal touch their clinic provides, noting that their staff often knows patients by name and takes the time to listen to their concerns. “It’s that compassion and dedication that sets us apart,” says Blanke.
The clinic operates extended hours to accommodate the needs of the community, staying open until 7 p.m. on weekdays and offering Saturday hours as well. “We understand that people have busy lives, and we want to be here when they need us,” Robb adds. They also make an effort to see patients quickly, aiming to schedule appointments within 12 to 48 hours of a patient’s call.
Schreck’s role at the clinic has been well-received by both patients and colleagues. Her expertise in primary care and her dedication to treating patients holistically make her a valued asset to the clinic. Robb and Blanke are thrilled to have her on board, noting her thoroughness, diagnostic skills and commitment to patient care. “She’s a great fit for our team and the community,” Robb says. “She’s very attentive to her patients’ needs and works closely with our staff to ensure they receive comprehensive care.”
The clinic’s comprehensive services, compassionate staff and commitment to affordable care make it an invaluable resource for the community. Whether patients need routine checkups, assistance managing chronic conditions, or mental health support, Knox Winamac is there to provide personalized, quality care for all.
For Schreck, joining Knox Winamac Community Health Center has been an opportunity to build strong relationships with her patients and make a meaningful impact in the community. The clinic’s mission to provide affordable, high-quality care ensures that no one is left behind. With the support of dedicated providers like Schreck, Farris and Metts, and the leadership of Robb and Blanke, Knox Winamac continues to serve as a vital health care provider in the region.
For more information about Knox Winamac Community Health Center or to schedule an appointment, visit them at 1002 Edgewood Drive in Knox, or call 574-772-6030.
